Stress is not the only reason a person may pick up a teeth grinding habit during the night. Existing troubles with the alignment or movement of your jaw can also affect your risk for developing this problem, known as bruxism. With that said, if you are having problems managing stress you may find that you often wake up in the morning with jaw pain and sore teeth because of grinding or clenching. Your Southlake, TX dentist wants patients to know that untreated problems with bruxism can carry serious oral health consequences. Grinding and clenching put alarming pressure on teeth, and it can lead to them becoming misshapen, or even damaged. The harm can actually be serious enough to require restorative dental work!
Nightly Teeth Grinding Can Do Real Harm To Your Smile
The more time you spend grinding or clenching your teeth, the more likely you are to develop problems with your oral health. The continued friction can gradually wear on your enamel and leave your teeth looking less attractive. Without cosmetic dental work, your smile can permanently look aged or unhealthy as a result of this habit. It is also possible for the pressure to chip or crack teeth. Damage that becomes too serious may lead to the need for dental crowns.
Other Effects Stress Can Have On Your Oral Health
Stress can have other unwelcome effects on your oral health when it is not being managed. In a stressful period, you may put less thought into your diet, and raise your risks for cavities. You can also suffer from distraction and lower energy levels, which can make you less attentive to matters of oral hygiene. What this means is that the conditions will be in place for you to take worse care of your teeth at home, so you are more likely to have a dental problem identified during your next dental exam – something that is not likely to help you reduce stress.
Make Sure That Your Teeth Stay Protected Against Harm In Stressful Times
While it may seem unusual to regard stress management as an oral health concern, you should be committed to controlling your habit of grinding or clenching your teeth. Stress reduction can be beneficial, particularly before bedtime, if you are trying to manage bruxism. You can also reduce your tendency to grind by reducing your consumption of caffeinated products, as well as alcohol.
Your Southlake, TX Dentist Can Help You Keep Your Teeth In Good Health
Our Southlake, TX dentist’s office wants patients to have the support they need to keep their teeth in good shape.
Call our Southlake Dental Office to make an appointment with a dentist who may be able to help you find out more about this topic, and improve your oral health.